Experts Downplay Rising Covid Cases in Southeast Asia, Call It Seasonal Flu Trend

New Delhi – Amid reports of rising Covid-19 cases in Southeast Asia, health experts have attributed the increase to typical seasonal flu patterns rather than any alarming resurgence of the virus.

According to reports, weekly Covid-19 cases in Singapore jumped 28% — from 11,100 in late April to 14,200 in the first week of May. Hospital admissions also rose by 30%. In Hong Kong, 31 virus-related deaths were recorded in the week ending May 3, the highest weekly total in a year. The number of new infections climbed from 972 to 1,042 in the following week.

“Most of these rising Covid cases in Southeast Asia follow seasonal flu patterns. The majority are mild and do not require hospitalisation,” said Dr. Harshal R. Salve, Additional Professor at the Centre for Community Medicine, AIIMS, New Delhi.

India has also seen a slight increase in cases, but officials say the situation is well under control. A review conducted on Monday by the Health Ministry confirmed that as of May 19, only 257 active Covid-19 cases were reported nationwide.

“Covid-19 tends to follow a cyclical pattern, with cases increasing every six to nine months. Similar to other Asian countries, India is witnessing a slight uptick, but it's not overwhelming hospitals or causing more severe illness than before. Most patients are being treated as outpatients,” explained Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan, Convener of the Research Cell, Kerala State Indian Medical Association (IMA).

He added that widespread immunity from previous infections and vaccinations has significantly reduced the severity of the disease. “There’s no sign of a major mutation in the virus that would change its impact.”

China and Thailand have also reported a noticeable rise in infections, largely attributed to the spread of newer Omicron subvariants such as JN.1 and its offshoots LF.7 and NB.1.8, which now account for more than two-thirds of sequenced cases.

Experts believe the rise in infections could also be due to declining immunity over time, making periodic waves expected.

Although most new cases remain mild, Dr. Jayadevan warned that vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly or those with weakened immune systems, could face more severe outcomes.

Health professionals are urging the public to follow basic preventive measures. “When cases rise, it’s wise to be more cautious. Wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces and staying home when you have a fever can help limit the spread,” Jayadevan advised.

The Health Ministry also reassured the public that India has a strong surveillance system in place for monitoring respiratory viruses, including Covid-19, through the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

With inputs from IANS